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New Zealand is a participant in the United Nations 1951 Convention and 1967 Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees and Asylum Seekers. Under Asylum law, individuals fearing persecution on the basis of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group in their original home country may apply for refugee status. The Immigration New Zealand is responsible for assessing these claims. Whakatane, being a part of New Zealand, follows the same national laws and regulations relating to asylum seekers and refugees.
Applying for asylum is a complex legal process that involves intricate paperwork, interviews, and sometimes court appearances. A lawyer who specialises in asylum law can help ensure your case is presented in the best light and that all necessary documents are correctly prepared. If your case is sent to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal, having a lawyer can also be beneficial during the appeal process. Lawyers are also particularly important in ensuring the rights of the asylum seekers are not violated during this process.
New Zealand law entitles anyone physically in the country to claim asylum and apply as a refugee, regardless of their legality of entrance. In accordance with the UN Convention, New Zealand prohibits returning someone to a country where there's a risk of persecution (non-refoulement). Additionally, asylum seekers have the right to access healthcare and are allowed to work if the application process takes longer than six months. When the refugee status is recognised, they are offered Permanent Residency, access to education, healthcare and the right to work permanently.
After you arrive in New Zealand, contact Immigration New Zealand as soon as possible to initiate your claim.
While you wait for a decision on your refugee status application, you are allowed to work if the application process takes longer than six months.
Yes, anyone physically in New Zealand is entitled to apply for asylum, regardless of how they entered the country.
If your application gets denied at the first instance, you have the right to appeal to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal.
A lawyer is not required but is highly recommended due to the complexity of the application process. They ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
For additional help, you can reach out to the Refugee Council of New Zealand, or organizations like Asylum Access and Amnesty International. You might also find the services offered by Community Law Centres in New Zealand helpful.
If you're seeking asylum in New Zealand, the first step is to lodge your claim with Immigration New Zealand. It's also important to acquire legal advice to ensure your rights are being safeguarded. Contact a lawyer specializing in Immigration and Refugee law as soon as possible. Always remember you have the right to appeal if your initial claim is refused.
